Franchise-tag decision could impact QB search

The latest bone of contention between the NFL and NFL Players’ Association involves teams’ rights to put franchise and transition tags on players.

The league is arguing that it’s business as usual, that because the current collective bargaining hasn’t expired (its rules are in effect until March 4), teams will have a two-week window starting next Wednesday to put a tag on a player whose contract is about to expire.

The union is arguing that because the upcoming 2011 season is not a season under the current agreement, the NFL has no basis for claiming the right to franchise players in 2011.

One way the final ruling could impact the Titans is in the quarterback department.

ESPN recently reported that Philadelphia planned to slap the franchise tag on quarterback Michael Vick for next season, and that the Eagles would then listen to offers for back-up quarterback Kevin Kolb. The Titans’ need for a new starting quarterback could lead them in the direction of Kolb, especially if Denver chooses to hold onto Kyle Orton.

But if the Eagles aren’t able to franchise Vick, it would mean a longer, more drawn-out contract process between the team and the player, which could lead to more uncertainty in considering a trade for Kolb.

As far as the Titans’ current roster is concerned, it’s hard to see the verdict on franchising players having much impact.

Defensive end Jason Babin is arguably the team’s biggest potential unrestricted free agent, and the Titans definitely want him under contract here next season. But it looks like the salary for a franchised defensive end next season would be about $13 million, and it would be hard to see the Titans paying that kind of money to him.

Guard Leroy Harris is another valuable player who is currently without a contract for next season, but it’s hard to imagine the Titans franchising him either, not when the price tag for a franchised offensive lineman could be about $11 million next season.